The Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus
crispus) is a member of the pelican family. It breeds from southeastern Europe through Asia to China
in swamps and shallow lakes. The nest is a crude heap of
vegetation.

This is the largest of the pelicans, averaging 170–190 cm
(67-75 inches) in length, 11–15 kg (24-33 lbs) in
weight and just over 3 m (10 ft) in wingspan. On average,
it's the world's heaviest flying species, although large male bustards and swans can exceed the pelican in maximum weight. It
differs from the White Pelican in that it has curly nape feathers, grey legs and
greyish-white (rather than pure white) plumage. It has a red lower mandible in the
breeding season. Immatures are grey and lack the pink facial patch
of immature White Pelicans. The latter also has darker flight
feathers.

This pelican migrates short distances. In flight, it
is an elegant soaring bird, with the flock moving in synchrony. The
neck is then held back like a heron's.

As is well known, pelicans catch fish and small birds in their
huge bill pouches.